Underwood-Smith Teaching Scholars Program

Scholarship Description

The Underwood-Smith Teaching Scholars Program is a competitive scholarship for recent high school graduates with a passion for teaching and a history of high academic achievement, community service, and active involvement in extracurricular activities while in high school. Recipients will receive $10,000 per year for up to four years (up to the cost of tuition and fees, room and board, and other approved educational expenses). In exchange, Underwood-Smith Teaching Scholars must agree to teach in a West Virginia public school in an area of critical need (math, science, elementary education or special education) for a period of five years after graduating from college.

The scholarship may be used at any eligible West Virginia public or private, non-profit college or university offering West Virginia Board of Education-approved teacher preparation programs in math, science, elementary education, or special education. Each year, we will accept up to 25 new Underwood-Smith Teaching Scholars from a national applicant pool. Continue reading to learn more about program eligibility, the application process, and post-graduation service requirements.

Award at West Virginia institutions pursuing teaching careers in designated high need fields. Only first-time freshmen can apply. Must have a 3.25 GPA and college-ready ACT or SAT scores. Must maintain 3.0 cum GPA to renew. Must teach five years in West Virginia public schools in designated high need field.

Eligibility Requirements

• 3.0 Minimum GPA
• For residents of the following states: West Virginia
• Type of institution award is open to: four-year college
• Award is available to U.S. citizens

Application Requirements

• Application form required
• Transcript required
• Test scores required
• Essay required

How To Apply